Deacon Robert Lee Thompson was born on July 7, 1945, in Mississippi to the late Frank and Curley Lee Archie Thompson. He was the youngest of 11 children. Robert accepted Christ at an early age at Ross Chapel Missionary Baptist Church in Madison, Mississippi. He graduated from Rogers High School in Canton Mississippi in 1962.
Robert grew up with caring parents, siblings and a host of relatives. At an early age he took an interest in music, later in science and engineering. Robert attended Jackson State University. He was united in marriage with the love of his life, Verna Harris, on August 21, 1966. From this union they were blessed with four wonderful children. Robert was always there as a father figure to help and offer advice to all his nieces, nephews, cousins and anyone who needed an ear and advice.
They lived in Mississippi for several years before moving to Ann Arbor, Michigan and later to Ypsilanti, Michigan. After relocating to Ann Arbor, Robert joined Second Baptist Church of Ann Arbor where he witnessed his four children being baptized as members of the church. During his nearly 50 years as a member at Second Baptist, he served on both the Deacon Ministry and the Audio/Visual Ministry.
He worked at the WIHT, later WBSX and finally WPXD for over 35 years and retired in 2019. After his retirement, Robert’s life devotion was dedicated to serving God, his wife, children and grandchildren. He loved his grandchildren and would light up whenever they were around. He also loved going for long walks and looked forward to spending time in his yard doing gardening work. He was a huge fan of gospel music.
On Sunday, August 2, 2026, God called Robert home to be with him. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Verna Mae Thompson and his oldest son, Darrell LaTerry Thompson.
Robert is survived by his loving daughters Margie Dennie (Kevin) and Stacey Phillips; faithful sons, Dontonio Thompson and Delvecchio (Nikia) Thompson; Daughter-in-law Suzanne (late Darrell LaTerry) Thompson; ten grandchildren: Kevin Dennie Jr., Coretta Irby (Frank), John Phillips, Cory Dennie (Jourdan), Juwan Phillips (Kara), Kiara Thompson, Tamia Thompson, Delvecchio Thompson II, Donovan Thompson and Dallas Thompson; One brother, Jonnie (Alsie) Thompson of Jackson, MS; ten great grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
His favorite scripture was Psalms 37:4. We are at peace knowing that he has gone to be with the Lord, and he shall not want anymore.
